Mediterranean Chicken Orzo
Why You’ll Love It
This Mediterranean Chicken Orzo recipe is a delicious and simple way to enjoy a classic Mediterranean dinner at home. Packed with tender chicken, bright lemon, savory olives, and creamy feta, it balances fresh flavors with comforting orzo pasta. The one-pot method keeps cleanup easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables or protein swaps. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and how satisfying it is.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces – substitute with chicken breast if preferred
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – use avocado oil for a neutral flavor
- 1 medium onion, chopped – shallots work well too
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta – gluten-free orzo is a good swap
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth – vegetable broth for vegetarian version
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved – green olives can be used instead
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese – omit for dairy-free, use vegan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan; sauté for 3 minutes until the onion softens and the mixture is fragrant.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to lightly toast the pasta.
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes along with dried oregano, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a low simmer. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat. Stir in the halved Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Expert Tips
For juicier chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan when browning. Use bone-in thighs for more flavor, but adjust cooking time accordingly. Toast the orzo pasta well to bring out its nuttiness. Keep an eye on liquid levels during simmering; add small amounts of broth if it dries too quickly.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep the orzo moist. This dish freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations
- Vegan: Replace chicken with chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms, use vegetable broth, and omit feta or use a vegan cheese substitute.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with quinoa or rice.
- Dairy-Free: Skip feta cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Low-Carb: Substitute orzo with cauliflower rice for a lighter meal.
FAQ
What is Mediterranean Chicken Orzo?
Mediterranean Chicken Orzo is a flavorful one-pot dish combining tender chicken pieces with orzo pasta, olives, tomatoes, and feta cheese, inspired by classic Mediterranean flavors.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work fine but may cook faster and can dry out more easily. Monitor closely while cooking.
How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?
Stir frequently during cooking and use enough liquid. Toasting the orzo before adding liquid also helps prevent clumping.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Simply omit the feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative to keep it dairy-free.
How long is leftover Mediterranean Chicken Orzo good for?
Leftovers last up to 3 days in the refrigerator and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Call to Action
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